Exothermal vaporizer

ABSTRACT

An exothermal vaporizer is provided. The exothermal vaporizer has a body including an air and vapor mix port, a fluid inlet port in communication with a reservoir, an air inlet, and a wicking material. A mouthpiece is coupled to the body and a temperature indicating cap is removable from the body. A counter flow design exothermal vaporizer, a modular exothermal vaporizer, and a vaporizer which is adjustable to modulate and/or regulate the flow ratio of dilution air and produced vapor are also disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application, Ser.No. 62/192,432, filed Jul. 14, 2015, entitled Exothermal Fluid Vaporizerand Counter Flow Design Exothermal Vaporizer, and this application alsoclaims priority to U.S. Provisional Application, Ser. No. 62/269,034,filed Dec. 18, 2015, entitled Exothermal Modular Vaporizer, the contentsof each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entiretyherein.

FIELD

The present invention(s) relate to the field of vaporizers, and morespecifically to a vaporizer having modular components and a counter flowdesign for use with an external heating source.

BACKGROUND

“Vaping” or the inhalation of vaporized substances using a vaporizer,electronic cigarette, or similar device, has become increasingly popularsince its introduction to the market a short time ago. However, knownvaporization devices have certain drawbacks, including power sourceissues, cumbersome form factors, and difficulty functioning in harshenvironmental conditions.

Current devices such as vaporizers and electronic cigarettes functionvia an electrically heated and controlled vaporization element. Thisallows for a very precise level of control, but forces complete relianceupon electricity, batteries, charging devices, and connectors. Althoughbattery technology continues to improve and evolve, volumetricallybatteries can only store a small fraction of the energy stored in mostfuels.

Without the ability to function independent of electricity, the user ofcurrent technology devices must carry sufficient stored energy,typically in the form of batteries as well as chargers to convert linevoltage or power, such as from a car, to a suitable voltage and currentto recharge the batteries contained in the device. The result is acumbersome experience—not only are the devices themselves large anddifficult to handle, but they also often require additional proprietaryaccessories to maintain functionality.

Another noteworthy drawback of the current generation of existingdevices is their susceptibility to failure in harsh environmentalconditions. For example, the two conditions often most detrimental toproper functioning are wet and very cold conditions. Water can, in manycases, cause permanent damage to the sensitive electrical componentry ofelectronic devices. Cold can dramatically affect the ability of thebattery systems to provide the necessary power for proper vaporization,sometimes rendering the device completely unusable.

In addition, these known devices cannot also be used for smoking(consumption of dried substances via combustion instead ofvaporization). Furthermore, known vaporizer devices likewise may bedifficult to clean and/or customize.

Accordingly, there are currently no known devices designed for, or whichprovide for accurate and repeatable vaporization of fluids or othermaterial, such as smoking material, without the use of an integratedheat source and associated control mechanism. What is needed is a devicethat allows for easy and consistent vaporization of substances forinhalation that has a smaller form-factor, is easy to clean, andaddresses the limitations and other issues faced by current vaporizationdevices without the need for complex controls, circuitry and/orintegrated energy storage components.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, one or more examples of exothermal vaporizers aredisclosed.

In particular, an exothermal vaporizer is provided. The exothermalvaporizer has a body including an air and vapor mix port, a fluid inletport in communication with a reservoir, an air inlet, and a wickingmaterial or evaporation matrix. A mouthpiece is coupled to the body anda temperature indicating cap which is removable from the body.

An exothermal vaporizer having a counter flow design is also disclosed.The exothermal vaporizer includes a body comprising an outer tube. Aninternal tube or condenser is also provided having a smallercross-sectional area than the body and retained in position in the bodyby a mouthpiece or O-rings coupled to the body, wherein the condenserruns or extends the approximate length of the body. An extractionchamber is provided in the tip which is incorporated with the body. Atemperature indicating cap is provided and is removable from the body.

An exothermal vaporizer is also provided including a condenser tubewhich threads into a mouthpiece and is user adjustable to modulateand/or regulate the flow ratio of dilution air and produced vapor. Thevaporizer also has a body containing the condenser tube, wherein themouthpiece and a tip incorporating the extraction chamber are integratedwith the body by friction fit O-rings and wherein the condenser tuberemains rotationally fixed relative to the body as the mouthpiece istwisted and the tip and condenser tube have one or more interfacingsurfaces.

These and other features and advantages of devices, systems, and methodsaccording to this invention are described in, or are apparent from, thefollowing detailed descriptions of various examples of embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Various examples of embodiments of the systems, devices, and methodsaccording to this invention will be described in detail, with referenceto the following figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an exothermal vaporizer, invarious embodiments, as disclosed herein.

FIG. 2 is a partially exploded elevation view of the exothermalvaporizer of FIG. 1, in various embodiments, as disclosed herein.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the assembled exothermal vaporizer ofFIG. 1, in various embodiments, as disclosed herein.

FIG. 4 is an exploded side elevation view of a counter flow designexothermal vaporizer, in various embodiments, as disclosed herein.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exothermal vaporizer of FIG. 4, invarious embodiments, as disclosed herein.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a counter flowdesign exothermal vaporizer shown in FIG. 5 without the cap, in variousembodiments, as disclosed herein.

FIG. 7 is a partially exploded perspective view of the exothermalvaporizer shown in FIG. 6, in various embodiments, as disclosed herein.

FIG. 8 is an alternative partially exploded view of the exothermalvaporizer shown in FIG. 6, in various embodiments, as disclosed herein.

FIG. 9a is side elevation cross-sectional view of a modular exothermalvaporizer, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 9b is a side elevation cross-sectional view of the modularexothermal vaporizer of FIG. 9a , taken from line 9 b-9 b of FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 9c is a side elevation cross-sectional view of a portion of themodular exothermal vaporizer of FIG. 9a , including an alternativeexample of a tip and diffuser disc.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the modular exothermal vaporizer shownin FIG. 9 a.

FIG. 11 is an alternative perspective exploded view of a modularexothermal vaporizer according to one or more examples of embodiments.

FIG. 12 is an alternative perspective exploded view of a modularexothermal vaporizer according to one or more examples of embodiments.

FIG. 13 is an alternative perspective exploded view of a modularexothermal vaporizer according to one or more examples of embodiments,with no mouthpiece shown.

FIG. 14 is an alternative perspective exploded view of a modularexothermal vaporizer according to one or more examples of embodiments,with no mouthpiece shown.

FIG. 15 is an alternative perspective exploded view of the modularexothermal vaporizer shown in FIG. 13, including the mouthpiece.

FIG. 16 is an alternative perspective exploded view of a modularexothermal vaporizer according to one or more examples of embodiments,and including a rotating or spinning mouthpiece.

FIG. 17 is a plan view of one or more alternative examples of a tip foruse with an exothermal vaporizer as described herein.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the tip shown in FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is an alternative perspective view of the tip shown in FIG. 17.

FIG. 20 is an end elevation view of the tip shown in FIG. 17.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the tip shown in FIG. 17, takenfrom line A-A of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a plan view of a screen or diffuser disc for use with the tipshown in FIG. 17 according to one or more examples of embodiments.

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale.In certain instances, details that are not necessary to theunderstanding of the invention or render other details difficult toperceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, thatthe invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodimentsillustrated herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates generally to a vaporizer, and morespecifically to a modular vaporizer, which is heated to the vaporizingtemperature of the fluid or the active compounds desirable forextraction from the smoking material contained within via any externalheat source of sufficient temperature. Among other features, this newcategory of vaporizer differentiates from other types of vaporizers bycompletely separating the heat source and its associated control fromthe vaporizing components and materials.

In one or more examples of embodiments, the exothermal vaporizer is anovel type of vaporizer designed, in various embodiments, for use withexisting fluids intended for use with e-cigarettes and other electronicvaporizers. The exothermal vaporizer does not contain any electroniccomponents. It is also much more compact than currently availableelectronic devices. In various embodiments, the device may beapproximately 3.5 inches long and weigh only approximately ¼ oz.However, one of skill in the art would appreciate that variationsthereon may be made to suit the desired purposes, as well as to suit adesired look and feel. FIGS. 1-3 illustrate various embodiments of theexothermal vaporizer 100. FIG. 1 demonstrates the various components ofthe device. As can be readily ascertained in FIGS. 1-3, and inparticular FIG. 1, the exothermal vaporizer device 100 may be generallydivided into three sections: a mouthpiece 102, a body 104 or stem, and acap 106, which may be a temperature indicating cap. The body 104contains or has a number of features, including: an air/vapor mix port108, a fluid inlet port 110, a reservoir 112, an air inlet 114, andwicking material 116.

As indicated, the exothermal vaporizer 100 includes a cap 106 which isremovable from the body 104. The cap may be a temperature indicating cap106. A suitable temperature indicating cap 106 is described in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/142,351, published a U.S. PatentPublication No. 2014/0186015 A1, the entire contents of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein in its entirety. The temperatureindicating cap 106 is calibrated to indicate or provide an alert at theideal vaporization temperature for the fluid or smoking material theexothermal vaporizer 100 is intended to use.

As indicated, the body 104 or stem includes a reservoir 112 or tip.According to one or more examples of embodiments, the reservoir 112 ortip may be hollow such that it may be filled with or contain avaporizing fluid or smoking material. In various embodiments, thereservoir 112 may be constructed out of glass or any other substance ormaterial suitable for its intended purposes. The fluid/smoking material(not shown) is contained in an internal reservoir, which may feed awicking material 116 or evaporation matrix contained in the end of thebody 104 or tip 112 and may be covered by the temperature-indicating cap106. In various embodiments, the wicking material 116 is made from anysuitably heat resistant wicking material, for example, stainless steelor other metal mesh. Variations thereon are also contemplated. Thevaporization chamber 158 is formed by the space at the end of the body104 covered by the cap 106 during operation, which also contains thewicking material 116 and/or evaporation matrix. The fluid meters intothe wicking material 116 by capillary action and/or may also be meteredout of the reservoir 112 by pressure fluctuations created by the thermalcycling of the device during and between uses. The temperature rise ofthe device, due to the heat input required for vaporization, causes anincrease in the air pressure present in the fluid reservoir 112. Thisincreased pressure may be utilized to assist in the dispensation and/ormetering of the fluid from the reservoir 112 into the wicking element.As the device cools, the air in the reservoir 112 contracts andadditional air is drawn into the reservoir 112 to replace the dispensedfluid.

As can be seen in FIGS. 1-3, there are three (3) holes or aperturesapparent in the body 104. The holes are longitudinally spaced along thelength of the body. The first hole or aperture is the primary air inlet114 and is located near the cap 106. The second hole or aperture is thereservoir fill hole 110. The third hole or aperture is the dilution airhole(s) 108 used to adjust air/vapor mix and tune the performance of thedevice to the user's preference. While three holes or apertures arespecifically described, it is contemplated that more or fewer aperturesmay be used to accomplish the purposes provided.

A central tube or condenser 118 is also provided within the body 104. Ascan be seen in the Figures, the condenser has a smaller diameter thanthe body and provides an air flow gap between the interior surface ofthe body and the exterior surface of the condenser. The condenser tube118 performs several functions. It serves to create the internal side ofthe fluid reservoir 112, a conduit for vapor extraction, and a means ofredirecting vapor condensed in the mouthpiece area back to the wickingmaterial 116. The condenser tube 118 may be constructed of any suitablematerial for withstanding heat and performing the functionalitydisclosed herein; for example, but not limited to, glass, stainlesssteel, or titanium, and combinations thereof.

The mouthpiece 102 is coupled to the body 104 and functions as theinterface between the exothermal vaporizer device 100 and the user. Themouthpiece 102 also operates as a valve for the fluid reservoir fillport 110 and air/vapor mix and/or dilution inlet(s) 108. Specifically,an elastomeric mouthpiece 102 may be provided, coupled in a tightsealing fit over the body 104 (at an end thereof) and the correspondingports. This is accomplished via a manner of a conformable slide valve.While a specific example is provided, it is also contemplated that themouthpiece 102 or a portion thereof may fit or tightly fit within theend of the body 104. The mouthpiece 102 may be formed of any suitablematerial, examples of which include, but are not limited to, plastic,rubberized material, glass, metal, wood, and the like, as well ascombinations of the foregoing.

The exothermal vaporizer 100 functions to vaporize the fluid containedin the wicking element or material 116 and indirectly from the fluidreservoir 112. Any suitable external heat source (not shown) is used toheat the vaporization chamber (described above) located underneath orenclosed by the cap 106 to the appropriate temperature. The appropriatetemperature is indicated by a calibrated thermo-activated elementcontained within the cap 106.

In one or more examples of use of the exothermal vaporizer 100, a usermay first load or fill the device with a substance for vaporization andconsumption. Next, the user may apply a heat source, such as a lighter,to the base (i.e., the downward facing portion of the vaporizer 100 whenheld by the user) of the device. A metal temperature sensor orthermo-indicator may then indicate to the user the substance is readyfor consumption. Next, the user may apply suction to the mouthpiece 102to consume the substance. This suction creates a pressure drop in thevaporization chamber (described above) forcing air into the air inlethole 114, then through or around the evaporation matrix or wickingmaterial 116 followed by a 180 degree change in direction going upthrough the central tube/condenser 118 to the mouthpiece 102. As thevapor flow enters the mouthpiece area it is diluted by the dilution airvia the air/vapor ratio port 108 to the user's preference. The user maythen inhale the mixed air and vapor. Vapor production will diminish asthe temperature drops in the vaporization chamber. Shortly afterwardsthe temperature indicator may indicate it has cooled sufficiently andreset and is now ready for another heating cycle.

One or more alternative examples of embodiments of an exothermalvaporizer 120 having a counter flow design are shown in FIGS. 4-8, whichillustrate various embodiments of the device. Like the exothermalvaporizer 100 described hereinabove, the counter flow exothermalvaporizer 120 shown in FIGS. 4-8 may, in various embodiments, beapproximately 3.5 inches long and weigh only approximately ¼ oz.However, variations thereon would not depart from the overall scope ofthe present invention.

Various elements of the exothermal vaporizer 120 shown in FIGS. 4-8 aresubstantially similar to the elements shown and described in FIGS. 1-3and therefore like numbers will be used to identify like components. Theexothermal vaporizer 120 shown in FIGS. 4-8 incorporates severaladditional elements. First, a ventilation hole or holes 122 arepositioned near the mouthpiece 102. Next, the internal condenser tube118 is installed running or extending the length or approximate lengthof the device 120 from the mouthpiece 102 stopping or terminating justshort of a diffuser disc 124. The mouthpiece 102 or O-ring(s) 126retain(s) the condenser tube 118 in place.

In one or more examples of embodiments, the device may also include, orfit within a housing or other container for safety and portability.

The above described combination of elements of the exothermal vaporizer120 of FIGS. 4-8 includes several features. First, it provides or has atighter fit of the cap 106 relative to the body 104, which improvesconducted heat transfer and helps retain the cap 106 in the correctposition both during use and non-use. Second, a significant proportionof the airflow through the device is a bypass of the extraction chamber.Consequently, there are several benefits, including, but not limited to:extended time at operational temperature; reduced extract concentration;reduced effort to draw or minimized suction to use the device; andlowered extract temperature. Third, the condenser tube 118 re-directsairflow and creates a wash of the interior surface of the outer tube(i.e., body 104) as the dilution air entering the device near themouthpiece 102 travels toward the chamber end carrying any errant vaporwith it where it then has to make a 180 degree turn to enter thecondenser tube 118. This dilution air reduces the accumulation of plantmatter and condensates on the interior surface of the outer tube 104.The 180-degree turn and corresponding acceleration in velocity of thedilution air stream also creates a localized drop in air and vaporpressure adjacent to the extraction chamber. This promotes theextraction and evacuation of the extracted compounds from the sample.Next, since the condenser tube 118 has a smaller cross-sectional areaand diameter than the body 104, the same volumetric flow of dilution airand vaporized extract is now accelerated to a much higher velocity as ittransits the device. This, in conjunction with the substantially smallersurface area of the condenser tube 118, minimizes the amount ofvaporized material condensed out of the air/vapor stream. In addition,the incorporation of the dilution air reduces the level of saturation inthe vapor stream promoting the retention of the liberated compounds inthe air/vapor stream for improved ingestion and absorption. This processalso lowers the temperature of the air/vapor stream which reduces theharshness or irritation and/or coughing associated with pulmonaryirritation caused by high temperature gases and aerosols such as smoke.

The disclosed improved device also allows for easier cleaning. Forexample, the condenser tube 118 provides for an easier way to removeaccumulated residues from the device following extended usage. Inparticular, the mouthpiece 102 or O-ring(s) 126 retain(s) the condensertube 118 in place, so the condenser tube is easily removed. Accordingly,all of the components are accessible and easy to clean, remove and/orreplace.

FIGS. 9-16 demonstrate one or more additional and alternative examplesof a exothermal vaporizer 130. Various elements of the exothermalvaporizer 130 shown in FIGS. 9-16 are substantially similar to theelements shown and described in FIGS. 1-8 and therefore like numberswill be used to identify like components. However, the vaporizer 130shown in FIGS. 9-16 includes a number of additional features, including:a condenser tube 132 comprised of titanium, stainless steel, or anothersuitable material or combinations of materials, a condenser 132 whichhas threads and may thread into the mouthpiece 136 (having correspondingmating threads) and is adjustable to modulate and/or regulate the flowratio of dilution air and produced vapor, integration of the tip 134 andthe mouthpiece 136 into the body 104 with friction fit O-rings 126(allowing for tool-less assembly and disassembly, as well as thermalisolation of, among other things, the tip 134 from the body 104), avariety of material choices for the components with a standardizedinterface size, and strategic material use across the device.

FIGS. 9a-c illustrate cross-sections of a modular exothermal vaporizer130, according to various examples of embodiments. The assembledvaporizer is shown in FIG. 10. Referring to these Figures, various partsof an exothermal vaporizer 130 are disclosed. A tip 134 for theexothermal modular vaporizer 130 is shown which couples and/orinterfaces with/to a condenser tube 132. As indicated above, thecondenser tube has a smaller diameter than the body and when insertedinto the body provides an air gap between the exterior surface of thecondenser tube and the interior surface of the body. In variousembodiments, the condenser tube 132 is optimized for communication withthe tip 134 for flow modulation. For example, the tip 134 and/orcondenser 132 may have a taper 135 at the interface for flow modulation.As can be seen in the Figures, the taper 135 is a very small/shortdecrease in external diameter of the condenser 132 at the very end orinterfacing surface of the condenser adjacent the tip interfacingsurface.

A heat dissipation feature 138 is also shown in FIGS. 9-10, which may,in various embodiments, be in the form of fins—which aid in heatdissipation. For example, the fins 138 make the conductive path smallerby minimizing the cross-sectional area as well as providing an increasedsurface area for dissipation of errant heat conducted away from thevaporization chamber 158. The fins 138 or other features may alsofunction to assist in heat transfer to preheat incoming vapordisplacement air. This function also has the added benefit of coolingthe end of the tip 134 where it joins the body 104, minimizing thetransfer of heat from the tip 134 to the body 104 in the process ofrecycling the heat conducted away from the vaporization chamber 158otherwise lost back into the incoming airstream preheating it to furtherreduce the rate of heat loss in the vaporization chamber due to theincoming air.

As can be seen in reference to the Figures and discussed in furtherdetail hereinbelow, the exothermal vaporizer 130 components may havegrooves 140 which are suitably sized to accept O-rings 126. O-rings 126may be formed of silicone, FKM or Viton™, or other suitablethermally-isolating material (described in further detail below). Inaddition, threads 142 may be provided on the condenser tube 132 spacingrelative to the tip 134. This feature, in various embodiments, allowsfor adjustment of airflow relative to vapor production into thevaporizer 130 condenser tube 132.

Referring to FIG. 9c , in one or more alternative examples ofembodiments, a bowed or domed screen or diffuser disc 152 may beprovided in the tip 134. The tip 134 may have multiple grooves 154 (alsoshown in FIG. 9b ) for adjusting the size of the vaporization chamber158 (discussed in further detail hereinbelow in reference to FIGS.17-22). In the illustrated embodiment four (4) such grooves are shown,although one of skill in the art would appreciate the more or fewer suchgrooves 154 may be provided without departing from the overall scope ofthe present invention. In one or more examples of embodiments, thescreen 152 is press-fit into the tip. In this regard, the screen 152 maybe provided with circumferential compression, and when in combinationwith its insertion into a groove, it resists force thereby retaining thescreen in the tip.

The foregoing configuration advantageously provides for optimal heatmanagement, containment and controlled dissipation.

A variable ratio flow control may also be provided. For example,adjustment of the ratio between direct vapor chamber flow through andinverse induction dilution air is accomplished by rotating themouthpiece 136 relative to the body 104 of the vaporizer 130, whichthreads or unthreads, withdrawing or extending the condenser tube 132from the mouthpiece 136 and changing the interfacing clearance betweenthe condenser tube 132 and the tip 134, or otherwise modifying and/ormodulating the restriction in the dilution air flow path.

As can be seen in reference to FIGS. 9a-c , a tapered condenser tube 132(see taper 135), or other flow modulation component, is actuated via thetwisting of the mouthpiece 136 relative to the body 104 in order tomodulate flow control. In various embodiments, this feature isfacilitated by the engagement of the threads 142 provided on thecondenser tube 132 with the corresponding mating threads 144incorporated into the mouthpiece 136 to adjust the condenser tube 132spacing relative to the tip 134. Accordingly, the physical action usedto facilitate this adjustment is a twisting motion. In other words, auser may twist or untwist the mouthpiece 136 relative to the body 104,which may then facilitate the actuation of the condenser tube 132relative to the mouthpiece 136, body 104, and/or tip 134. While aspecific example is provided, other means of adjusting and/or regulatingthe ratio of air induction in order to optimize vapor concentration(flow modulation) may also be provided, e.g., sliding vs. twisting, orother similar methods of engaging one or both sides of the condenser andits mating component(s). In the embodiment described, the condenser tube132 remains rotationally fixed relative to the body 104 as themouthpiece 136 is twisted. The twisting of the mouthpiece 136 threads orunthreads the condenser tube 132, actuating it either towards or awayfrom a valving or restriction point. This enables “dialing in” ormodification of the vapor and dilution air mixture. In other words, invarious embodiments, the internal or external dimension of the condensertube 132 and/or interfacing aperture of the tip 134 or body 104 of thevaporizer 130 tapers or has a taper 135 to act as a needle valve andseat for adjusting and modulating flow and moderating the air and vaporratio.

The flow modulation may occur at the internal interface between thecondenser tube 132 and the tip 134 (which includes the extractionchamber). Accordingly, the tip 134 may have an inside diameter slightlylarger than the condenser tube 132. In addition, the tip 134 and/or thecondenser tube 132 may have one or more interfacing surfaces. Theseinterfacing surfaces may have a taper incorporated and geometry toprovide an incremental increase and/or decrease in an aperture providedbetween the tip 134 and the condenser tube 132 upon extension and/orretraction relative to one another. The variable aperture provides ameans of regulating and/or modulating the ratio between produced vaporand/or dilution air. For example, as a user inhales, vapor is displacedfrom the extraction chamber by incoming air and condenser tube 132through the tip 134 (by way of the diffuser). In addition, dilution aircan enter the extraction chamber by way of a space (aperture) provided,in various embodiments, between the body 104, condenser tube 132, andmouthpiece 136. In addition or in the alternative, an aperture 146 maybe provided in the body 104. While specific examples are described,additional means of either restricting the dilution air and/or promotingthe vapor production and/or flow in a user-adjustable fashion would alsobe considered within the scope of this disclosure.

In addition to the foregoing, the user adjustable variable air/vaporratio may be used with both liquid vaporizers and other smoking material(e.g., dry herb or plant) vaporizers. For example, an adjustablevariable air/vapor ratio may function via a similar user actuatedvalving and ratio adjustment system. In one embodiment this feature maybe accomplished via twisting the mouthpiece 136 portion of the vaporizer130 relative to the body 104, which facilitates the extension and orretraction of the condenser relative to the tip 134 valving modulation.This valving may be accomplished by having a threaded portion of theinner or condenser tube 132 threaded into the mouthpiece 136, thereforewhen the mouthpiece 136 is rotated relative to the condenser tube 132,the condenser tube 132 is then either extended or withdrawn from/intothe mouthpiece 136.

As indicated above, the flow modulation may occur at the internalinterface between the condenser tube 132 and the tip 134 (which includesthe extraction chamber). The tip 134 may have an inside diameterslightly larger than the condenser tube 132 and either the tip 134 orthe condenser tube 132 or both have a taper incorporated into theirrespective interfacing surfaces and dimensions to provide an incrementalincrease and/or decrease in aperture upon extension and/or retractionrelative to one another. It is this variable aperture, which may beresponsible for one described means of regulating and/or modulating theratio between produced vapor and/or dilution air.

Additional means of modulating the flow can be created by drilling holesor other apertures arranged in a linear (or other suitable) fashion fromthe mouthpiece 136 towards the vapor chamber. It is the arrangement orpattern of said apertures when in one embodiment an internal seal orother slidable valving mechanism is actuated across the apertures. Asmore apertures are isolated from the air induction side of the seal orvalving mechanism, the induction air flow may be modulated and/orrestricted. The movable seal or valving mechanism may be adjusted via athreaded extension/retraction mechanism actuated by twisting themouthpiece 136 against the body 104.

Another embodiment or means for modulating the flow may include a seriesof grooves 140 on the condenser tube 132 to retain a slidable andrepositionable seal such as an O-ring 126. This arrangement may allowthe user to modulate and adjust the device to their preference ofextraction strength and vapor temperature by selecting different sealpositions relative to the condenser tube 132 and its position whenretained in the body 104. The grooves 140, although useful for retainingthe seal(s) may not be required or necessary in various embodiments. Invarious embodiments, means required for modulation in this arrangementmay include the ability to seal against or isolate from the inductionairflow any number of the apertures in the body 104 which would allowair to enter the interstitial space between the condenser tube 132 andthe inside of the body 104 thereby modulating the air flow.

Another embodiment of or means for modulating flow may include valvingor otherwise restricting the apertures from the external side of thecondenser 132. This may be accomplished via a component of the device ora separate device, including the operator's fingers.

Another embodiment or means for modulating flow or of air/vaporadjustment may include a user adjustable spring tension against avalving mechanism. This may allow for a real time functioning of a flowand pressure-regulating device which can compensate air and/or vaporflow during use based on the pressure differential created during use.This feature may allow the user to simply adjust the strength of thevapor concentration extracted instantly by increasing and/or decreasingthe applied suction to the mouthpiece 136.

While various examples are specifically provided, another or additionalmeans of either restricting the dilution air and/or promoting the vaporproduction in a user adjustable fashion may also be considered withinthe scope of this disclosure.

As shown in FIGS. 9-16, the exothermal vaporizer 130 as disclosed hereinmay be modular. The manner in which the condenser 132, tip 134 and otherinterfacing elements connect, actuate and the corresponding clearancesallow for interchangeability of components and use of multiple materialtypes including materials which would otherwise be unsuitable if theywere directly connected without a thermal break. In order facilitate atool-less friction fit incorporation of an element or component it ispreferable to hold a tight dimensional tolerance to ensure the correctamount of elastomeric deformation and/or compression needed forretention of the component with its corresponding parts.

In FIGS. 9-16, a tip 134, diffuser 124, body 104, and mouthpiece 136 ofthe exothermal modular vaporizer 130 according to various examples ofembodiments are provided. The condenser tube 132 is provided within thebody 104 and mouthpiece 136, which, as indicated above, tapers towardsthe tip 134 for interaction with the tip (and diffuser 124). The tip 134is separable from the body 104 and the mouthpiece 136 is separable fromthe condenser 132.

In one or more examples of embodiments shown in FIG. 16, the mouthpieceor a portion thereof may be a rotating or spinning mouthpiece 148. Forexample, the mouthpiece in one example of embodiments freely rotates 360degrees. That is, the mouthpiece or mouthpiece portion 148 (orconversely the body 104 or a component thereof) may rotate about an axis150 such that the body 104 can be rotated relative to the mouthpiece 148for even heat application. In one example of embodiments, the mouthpiece148 may be incorporated or otherwise attached to the vaporizer 130 via acoaxial engagement with the condenser tube 132 running through thediameter of the mouthpiece—with the mouthpiece held in place by O-rings126 affixed to the condenser 132 at either end of the mouthpiece 136.This arrangement provides for retention of the mouthpiece 148 while alsoallowing for free rotation about the condenser tube 132.

The modularity is assisted by a friction fit assembly provided byO-rings 126 provided within grooves 140 on the vaporizer 130. Thegrooves 140 may be provided, in various embodiments, on the tip 134,condenser tube 132, and/or mouthpiece 136, however, variations thereonaccomplishing the purposes provided may also be acceptable.

In various embodiments, five to eight O-rings 126 may be provided on thevarious parts of the vaporizer 130. In one or more particular examplesof embodiments, the O-rings 126 may be coupled together in a pattern,for example in a double O-ring pattern, to enhance functionality.However, any number of O-rings 126, or other types of retaining ringsmay be provided to suitably achieve the effects disclosed herein. Invarious embodiments, recesses or grooves 140 may also, optionally, beprovided on the device to which the O-ring 126 is secured to allow forthe O-ring to retain its position on the device through assembly anddisassembly, as well as provide a suitable degree of friction-fit and/oranti-rotation resistance. The O-ring 126 configuration may allow forrapid and easy assembly and disassembly without the need for any tools.This feature may be highly desirable to facilitate cleaning of residuesfrom some of the internal surfaces and components.

In various embodiments, O-rings 126 may be provided on an upper surface(i.e., near the mouthpiece) of the vaporizer 130 acting as a frictionalelement instead of a seal. For example, an O-ring 126 may be used on thecondenser tube 132 to maintain the condenser tube 132 in a rotationallyfixed position relative to the body 104, yet still allow for axialmovement. In various embodiments, this feature may act as a higher levelof friction compression fit, which resists rotation of the body 104during “dialing-in” or adjustment of the condenser tube 132 relative tothe tip 134.

The O-ring 126 thickness may be suitably sized to resist the unintendeddisassembly of the vaporizer 130 yet allow for easy intentionaldisassembly of the vaporizer 130. Suitable examples of friction fitO-rings 126 include 6 mm I.D×1 mm cross-section O-rings, yet anysuitable combination of sizes may be used provided the O-ring providesthe required interference fit necessary for the retention of thecomponents. The O-rings 126 may be comprised of any suitable material,one example of which is silicone. Other suitable materials may includeTeflon™, Viton™, or any other material which allows for maximumtemperature of over 400 degrees F.

In this regard, in addition to the friction fit the O-rings 126 providean insulative interface between heated and/or hot components andunheated components or components which perform better or morecomfortably when cool. Accordingly, the O-rings 126 preferably have athermal conductivity substantially lower than the components they areretaining and act to separate the components of the vaporizer 130 in themanner described herein. This results in a substantially reduced rate ofthermal migration from the “hot end” of the device into the coolerregions and/or components. In addition to the thermal isolation, theO-rings 126 also allow for the joining of materials and/or componentswith substantially different coefficients of expansion.

Accordingly, an advantage of the position, height, and material selectedof the O-rings 126 may include thermal isolation of the components ofthe vaporizer 130. In other words, while normal use of the vaporizer 130may involve heating the cap 106/tip 134 to a suitably high temperatureor degree for vaporization of material provided within the tip 134, auser may continue to hold the body 104 of the vaporizer 130 and consumevapor through the mouthpiece 136 without an uncomfortable transfer ofheat from the tip 134 to the remainder of the vaporizer 130. The thermalisolation may be facilitated by the spring back or space provided by thefeatures of the O-rings 126. This may, in various embodiments, eliminatethe direct path of conduction and/or heat transfer between the tip 134and remainder of the vaporizer 130.

In addition, the isolation of the components using the O-rings 126 andgrooves 140 may allow for the use of a variety of materials, which mayotherwise be incompatible with a vaporizing device. For example, theentire device may be comprised of titanium or other suitable material.This may include ceramic, stainless steel, or nitinol. In otherembodiments, the components may be comprised of wood, glass, or anyother suitable material. For example, the chamber or body 104 and/ormouthpiece 136 may be in particular comprised of wood or glass, whilethe tip 134 and/or mouthpiece 136 may be comprised of metal. In anotherembodiment, the mouthpiece 136 may be comprised of wood, the interiorcondenser tube 132 comprised of glass, and the tip 134 comprised ofmetal (including suitably conductive materials including tungsten, gold,titanium, sapphire, etc.). Likewise, one or more components or theentire device 130 may also be formed of a plastic, such as by injectionmolding or other molding techniques. While specific examples aredescribed, many other suitable combinations and materials may beunderstood as encompassed within the scope of this disclosure.

While various examples of embodiments include O-ring coupling of thevarious components of the device, in one or more alternative examples ofembodiments, other means may be used to join the components of theexothermal vaporizer 130 disclosed herein. As a non-limiting example,cryo-coupling may be used to couple materials together while avoidingbrazing and other mechanisms, which may result in noxious fumes andunwanted metal oxidization or contamination or residues. Cryo-couplingmay allow for cooling of various components of the device and assemblingthe exothermal vaporizer 130 in a limited manner to produce a bondalmost as strong as welding. In various embodiments, the device may bemanufactured in part by drilling out a bolt such that it fits evenlywith the tip 134.

The modular construction and separable/connectable components(including, but not limited to, similar sized features at componentinterfaces) of the exothermal vaporizer 130 described herein allows foruse of a broad range interchangeable components, providing a simple wayto upgrade or simply modify the appearance (and in some instancesfunctionality) of the exothermal vaporizer 130 unit depending on theuser's preference. This modularity also allows for the incorporation ofaftermarket component(s) as a supplement to OEM units (for example,different-shaped components may be used with the disclosedconfiguration). The modularity also provides an ability to provide anexothermal vaporizer 130 in the form of a kit including one or more ofthe components described herein, which components may be assembled by auser. For example, a kit may include (but is not limited to): one ormore bodies, one or more condensers, one or more tips, one or moremouthpieces, and various O-rings and/or other additional components orfewer components. Each of the components may be of the same material, ormay be formed of differing materials as described herein (e.g., a glassbody and a titanium body may be provided in a kit or multiple glassbodies may be provided, and so forth). In one or more examples ofembodiments, the kit and components thereof may be provided in acontainer or package containing said components, or multiplecontainers/packages.

In addition to the foregoing, a glass filter may be provided for usewith the exothermal vaporizer 130 in various embodiments. Filter ordiffuser discs 124 may be constructed from glass, ceramic or metal, andmay be retained by a retaining ring and groove 140 in the body 104 or inanother embodiment may be retained in a more permanent fashion bycreating a slight depression on the glass body 104 by heating the glassand allowing the depression to encompass both the top and bottom of thedisc 124.

As indicated hereinabove, it should be understood the disclosed device,as well as components of the device may be used for traditional smokingpurposes. In other words, dried material may be directly placed in thedevice and burned without the use of the cap 106. To this end, a glassor other type of material screen may be provided on the tube to allowfor direct contact between the heating source and dried material.

Referring to FIGS. 17-22, a tip 156 for use with a circumferentialcompression fit diffuser disc 125 (FIG. 22) is provided. The combinationillustrated enables a user adjustable vaporization chamber 158. This isaccomplished via grooves 154 in the interior wall of the vaporizationchamber 158 into which the circumferential compression fit diffuser disc125 can integrate. To adjust, the size, the user may push thecircumferential compression fit diffuser disc 125 all the way to thebottom of the adjustable vaporization chamber 158, where the groove 160is deeper to allow for a more complete relaxation of the circumferentialcompression fit diffuser disc 125 facilitating the inversion of thedoming from the insertion. Due to the size of the disc, the doming willalways point in the direction the circumferential compression fitdiffuser disc 125 is pushed and correspondingly force from the otherdirection will be resisted. Upon relaxation of the disc into the deepergroove, the circumferential compression fit diffuser disc 125 can beinverted with a tool from the opposite direction, and pushed outward.The circumferential compression fit diffuser disc 125 will click intoany of the grooves and be retained by its own spring pressure resistingforce from the compaction of material from the open end until it ispushed from the concave side of the dome to re-position or remove it.

In addition to the various advantages described hereinabove, theexothermal vaporizer described herein addresses a number of drawbacksand dependencies of current electric devices or otherwise experienced byknown vaporizer devices and provides a seemingly low-tech approach toaccomplish the task of vaporizing fluids and other smoking materialswithout using an electric element or any of its associated circuits orcomponents. Moreover, the exothermal vaporizer accomplishes one or moreof the foregoing tasks through the use of an innovative design andprecise, yet durable non-electronic heat transfer and thermal feedbackcomponents.

The exothermal vaporizer described herein is designed to functionreliably when heated with almost any heat source of sufficient thermalintensity. Moreover, the described vaporizer will function similarly ona warm calm day, as well as a brutally cold windy one. In the middle ofthe woods without any electricity, it can still be reliably andconsistently activated with a lighter, or even a burning stick out ofthe campfire.

In addition, through the use of the non-electric temperature indicator,this device allows and creates a new level of independence from thetraditional approach to vaporizers. By separating the heat source andcontrol from the vaporizing device, many advantages become apparent. Themost significant ones being the miniaturization and weight reduction incomparison to the above described heat source integrated devices. Oneexample of the contrast of the exothermal vaporizer to the currentintegrated devices is the ability to easily hold the device in theuser's mouth between the lips in a similar fashion to a cigarette.Without the weight of the battery, and the associated controlcomponentry commonly found in electronic devices this becomes reasonableagain. The user may now hold the device in their mouth while using it,and still have both hands free to attend to a task.

Likewise, one or more examples of a counter flow design exothermalvaporizer and a modular exothermal vaporizer are provided which havevarious additional advantages, such as: the condenser tube may betitanium or another suitable material; the condenser may thread into themouthpiece and be adjustable to modulate and/or regulate the flow ratioof dilution air and produced vapor; the tip and the mouthpiece mayintegrate into the body with friction fit O-rings—which allows fortool-less assembly and disassembly as well as thermal isolation; and theO-rings may thermally and mechanically isolate the tip from the bodyallowing the use of thermally conductive materials for constructionwithout the concern of excessive thermal conduction and/or uncomfortablesurface temperatures affecting the user. Moreover, this design providesfor a wide range of material choices for the different components (suchas the titanium tip, wood, glass, metal or ceramic body) as long as thepoint of interface between the components is standardized andconsistent. Additionally, the inverse induction airflow path for meansof regulating and adjusting air/vapor concentration also serves severaladditional and important functions, for example, but not limited to: theflow path creates a counter flow heat exchanger whereby the incoming airin the process of cooling the air/vapor output through the wall of thecondenser tube, scavenges the heat and the incoming air is therebypre-warmed which reduces the temperature differential between thedilution and/or displacement air and the vaporization temperature of thedesired compound(s) therefore maintaining vaporization temperature inthe extraction chamber for either a longer period of time or permittinga larger mass of air and vapor to be heated/produced before fallingbelow the minimum temperature threshold; the coaxial arrangement allowsfor a substantial reduction in size over other methods of cooling and/ortempering vapor output from vaporizers; and permitting an adjustablechamber size and easily removable and replaceable screens and otheraccessories for vaporization of fluids and resins—which may be retainedusing internal and/or external retaining rings and/or O-rings, eitherwith a corresponding groove or without.

A new ability is also provided to a vaporizer, namely the ability to usenew material(s) in specific areas of the unit where their respectivecharacteristics would be most beneficial such as a metal extraction tipwhich includes the chamber and diffuser disc. For example, creating thiscomponent from a metal or otherwise thermally conductive materialfacilitates a more even distribution of heat from the heat source to thetarget material. In comparison, previous attempts to use thermallyconductive materials resulted in the entire device becominguncomfortably hot quickly limiting its usefulness. Uniquely, theexothermal vaporizer devices having the various components describedherein permit heating of the material contained within the device to besmoked or inhaled such that the temperature exceeds the ignitiontemperature of the material without promoting combustion of thematerial. This permits extended time at operational temperature, andallows a slow decrease in temperature across the operational rangethereby maximizing extraction. Among other reasons noted above, thisadvantage is accomplished at least in part because there is no airflowwithin the vaporizer until the user draws on it.

In addition to the foregoing, the design of the body with a dilution airinduction, diffuser disc, and modulation system including a condensertube for the collection of resins and extracts produced during use meansthis device also functions in a smoking application substantially betterthan most dedicated smoking apparatus. To further elaborate, currentsmoking devices are typically rudimentary in nature and the addedfeatures of this design of device can improve the smoking experience byproviding the user additional means of adjusting the strength of thesmoked extract as well as providing a more simple manner of separatingand retaining some of the less desirable heavy tars an resins in asimple to remove and/or clean condenser tube.

Further, the condenser tube addresses one of the more significantoperational issues of traditional smoking devices without such anelement. The issue referred to is the undesirable accumulation ofresinous deposits. These deposits are typically a combination of ash aswell as distilled tars and resins with additional hydrocarbons and otherincomplete combustion byproducts. As these deposits are accumulated intraditional devices they begin to obstruct the air and smoke flow patheventually rendering the device either unusable of difficult to use. Thecondenser tube by its design both in placement in the body with theinverse induction airflow and its corresponding smoke and dilutionairflow acceleration, as well as the divergent shape following theinduction of the dilution air and vapor/smoke mixture reduces thepropensity of the high condensation constituents of the smoke or vaporto condense in the restricted portion of the condenser tube. Inaddition, as in the vaporizer use, the condenser tube functioning as acounter flow heat exchanger also helps cool the produced smoke as ittraverses the condenser tube towards the mouthpiece or exit.

As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially”,and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony withthe common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art towhich the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should beunderstood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure thatthese terms are intended to allow a description of certain featuresdescribed and claimed without restricting the scope of these features tothe precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms shouldbe interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequentialmodifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimedare considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in theappended claims.

It should be noted that references to relative positions (e.g., “top”and “bottom”) in this description are merely used to identify variouselements as are oriented in the Figures. It should be recognized thatthe orientation of particular components may vary greatly depending onthe application in which they are used.

For the purpose of this disclosure, the term “coupled” means the joiningof two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining maybe stationary in nature or moveable in nature. Such joining may beachieved with the two members or the two members and any additionalintermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body104 with one another or with the two members or the two members and anyadditional intermediate members being attached to one another. Suchjoining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable innature.

It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement ofthe system, methods, and devices as shown in the various examples ofembodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments havebeen described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the artwho review this disclosure will readily appreciate that manymodifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions,structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values ofparameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors,orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novelteachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example,elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple partsor elements show as multiple parts may be integrally formed, theoperation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, thelength or width of the structures and/or members or connector or otherelements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustmentpositions provided between the elements may be varied (e.g. byvariations in the number of engagement slots or size of the engagementslots or type of engagement). The order or sequence of any process ormethod steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternativeembodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissionsmay be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of thevarious examples of embodiments without departing from the spirit orscope of the present inventions.

While this invention has been described in conjunction with the examplesof embodiments outlined above, various alternatives, modifications,variations, improvements and/or substantial equivalents, whether knownor that are or may be presently foreseen, may become apparent to thosehaving at least ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, the examples ofembodiments of the invention, as set forth above, are intended to beillustrative, not limiting. Various changes may be made withoutdeparting from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, theinvention is intended to embrace all known or earlier developedalternatives, modifications, variations, improvements and/or substantialequivalents.

The technical effects and technical problems in the specification areexemplary and are not limiting. It should be noted that the embodimentsdescribed in the specification may have other technical effects and cansolve other technical problems.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A modular exothermal vaporizer comprising: a tip, a diffuser, a mouthpiece, a body, a condenser tube provided within the body, and a temperature indicating cap which is removable from the body; wherein the tip, the diffuser, the condenser tube, and the mouthpiece are removably and interchangeably assembled in the exothermal vaporizer by a friction fit assembly enabled by a plurality of O-rings positioned on any one or more of the tip, the diffuser, the condenser tube, and the mouthpiece, the O-rings also being configured to provide an insulative interface between heated and unheated components of the assembled exothermal vaporizer.
 22. The modular exothermal vaporizer of claim 21, wherein O-rings from the plurality of O-rings are provided on the tip, the condenser tube, and/or the mouthpiece.
 23. The modular exothermal vaporizer of claim 21, wherein one or more grooves are provided on the tip, condenser tube, and/or mouthpiece, and O-rings are provided in the one or more grooves.
 24. The modular exothermal vaporizer of claim 21, wherein a double O-ring is provided.
 25. The modular exothermal vaporizer of claim 21, wherein one or more of the tip, the diffuser, the condenser tube, and the mouthpiece are constructed of different materials and the O-rings further provide an interface between components composed of different material.
 26. The modular exothermal vaporizer of claim 21, wherein a reservoir is provided which is fillable with a smoking material.
 27. The modular exothermal vaporizer of claim 21, further comprising a wicking material is contained in an end of the body and in communication with the reservoir.
 28. The modular exothermal vaporizer of claim 21, comprising one or more apertures on the body.
 29. The modular exothermal vaporizer of claim 21, wherein the condenser has a smaller cross-sectional area than the body and is removably retained in position in the body, wherein the condenser extends an approximate length of the body, wherein the mouthpiece is coupleable to the body, wherein an extraction chamber is provided in the tip which is removeably incorporated with the body, and wherein the temperature indicating cap covers an open end of the body.
 30. The modular exothermal vaporizer of claim 21, wherein the diffuser is a circumferential compression fit diffuser disc insertable into and removable from the exothermal vaporizer, and retained by a spring pressure resisting force in a groove.
 31. The modular exothermal vaporizer of claim 21, wherein the components are provided in a kit. 